Winter Survival Guide: Tips for International Students in Finland

Vol 27 issue 17 07 February 2025

Finland’s winter is not for the faint-hearted. With temperatures dropping lower than most students’ GPA during finals week, international students often find themselves in a battle against the cold, the darkness, and the sneaky patches of ice that seem to have a personal vendetta. However, with the right mindset and about five layers of clothing:) winter can become an unforgettable experience.

1. Dress Like an Onion- The secret to surviving Finnish winter is layering. A t-shirt under a hoodie under a jacket under another jacket? Absolutely normal. The goal is to dress like an onion so many layers that even if the cold manages to seep through, it gets lost somewhere between your third sweater and thermal pants. Oh, and never ever underestimate the power of wool socks!

2. Befriend Vitamin D- The sun makes rare guest appearances in the Finnish winter, sometimes popping up just to remind you it still exists before vanishing again. This means vitamin D supplements are a must unless you enjoy feeling like a permanently exhausted pigeon. Many students swear by them to keep their energy levels up and prevent the infamous “why am I always sleepy?” syndrome.

3. Master the Art of Walking on Ice -The first time an international student encounters an icy sidewalk, it’s usually followed by an ungraceful wobble, flailing arms, and eventually a spectacular fall. To avoid being the main character of a winter slapstick comedy, mastering the “penguin walk” is essential. small steps, slightly bent knees, and a dignified acceptance that falling is just part of the experience.

4. Find Joy in the Darkness-with only a few hours of daylight, winter can feel like an endless night. But rather than despair, students can embrace the coziness think warm drinks, soft blankets, and discovering the true magic of Finnish saunas. And if all else fails, remember every day that passes means one step closer to summer, where the sun stays up for what feels like 40 hours straight.

5. Learn to Love Coffee-Finland is one of the top coffee-drinking countries in the world, and for a good reason. Coffee is not just a beverage; it’s a survival tool. It keeps students awake, warm and mostly functional throughout winter. If you weren’t a coffee person before Finland might just convert you.

Winter in Finland is a test of resilience and one’s ability to layer clothes effectively. But with the right preparation and attitude, it can also be a season filled with unforgettable adventures and stories to tell preferably while sipping a hot cup of coffee indoors.